4 Tips to Ensure Your Child Remains Safe and Secure in Their Car Seat

4 Tips to Ensure Your Child Remains Safe and Secure in Their Car Seat

There is no question that if you have kids AND you drive a car, then your kids are the most precious cargo that will ever be in your vehicle. And, now that Summer has come and gone and school is in session, you and your kids will be on the road and in the car more often, so if you have young ones who still have to travel in a car seat, it is vital that you pay attention to this information.

If you are ever in an accident and your child is in the car, they are more than 50% less likely to be seriously injured if they are secured in a car seat. That statistic is only viable, however, if that car seat works as intended.

Here are 4 tips to ensure your child remains safe and secure in their car seat:

1. Purchase the right car seat for your child - There are a lot of car seats available so when purchasing, take care to note that the one you purchase is a model that is made for the weight and size of your child AND that it has a very high safety rating. Most seats these days will accommodate growing children, but some do have a weight and size limit that must be adhered to in order for the seat to fully protect your child.
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3. Make sure your child’s car seat is not on a recall list - Because of factory defects, some car seat models are recalled. Before purchasing a new one or using your current one, Google RECALLED CAR SEATS and check the list to see if your model is on it or not. If so, it’s time to go shopping for a new model.
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5. Check the car set to ensure it is not defective - Trying to use a defective car seat is as useless as not using one at all. Carefully inspect the buckles to make sure they snap in and lock solidly. Check to make sure that the chest protector is secure, and all straps are free from any rips or tears. If any aspect of the car seat does not function properly, take it back to the store or if it is the case of wear and tear, simply purchase a new one. Your child is counting on YOU and it is your job as a parent to make sure their car seat works properly.
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7. Install the car seat properly - Once you have determined that your car seat is not on a recall list and that all parts of it are working properly, the final step is to ensure that the car seat is installed correctly. The most recent statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report that a full 59% of car seats are installed incorrectly, and this accounts for MANY of the injuries and deaths of children involved in car accidents. If the car seat has too much slack or is not properly secured using the seat belt or car hook (depending on which model you have) then it will not work correctly to protect your child. You can follow the directions provided with the car seat and view videos on YouTube or even visit your local fire department for help on securing the car seat properly.

The bottom line is, a working car seat that is installed and used properly can save your child from injury or death, so following the tips above is vital, AND, one of your most important responsibilities as a parent with a small child.